Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Fantastic aromas of blackberry and blueberry follow through to a full body with very fine, velvety tannins that run the length of the wine. Baking spices. Citrus. Blood orange. Purple fruit at the end like black cherry. Fresh and racy.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Soft, supple tannins wrap around lively layers of rose petal, raspberry, and a light hint of cardamom in the memorable 2021 Pinot Noir Ferrington Vineyard from this famous Russian River Valley producer. Medium-bodied, the wine is zesty and weighty, persistent in acidity while complex and long-lasting on the palate.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2021 Pinot Noir Ferrington Vineyard, matured for 16 months in 60% new oak, opens with flinty touches that give way to blackberry, blueberry, pennyroyal and earth aromas. The medium-bodied palate features powerful, perfumed flavors structured by powdery tannins and bright acidity, and it has a long, layered finish.
Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County just above Sonoma County, is one of California’s coolest AVAs, allowing it a long growing season. Only 15 miles long, the region makes a slice eastward through the mountains, from the frigid Pacific Ocean. Dramatic diurnal temperature variations here preserve grape acidity and thus freshness in the finished wines. These are prime conditions for growing Pinot Noir, and the valley produces many fine versions. Characteristics of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir typically include crisp acidity, cranberry and strawberry notes as well as earthy notes of forest floor and mushroom.
Still Pinot Noir, however, is only part of the story. Pinot Noir, along with Chardonnay, are also grown for Anderson Valley’s exceptional sparkling wines. Produced via the traditional method, these offer a classic toasty note from lees aging, bright, complex fruit notes and a clean, refreshing character.